Former F1 engineer Rob Smedley has indicated that Charles Leclerc appears “lost” this season in comparison to team-mate Lewis Hamilton. This assessment comes in light of Hamilton’s resurgence in form, as he currently occupies second place in the drivers’ championship, holding a 31-point lead over Leclerc.
Smedley’s comments were shared during a recent episode of the High Performance Racing podcast, where he highlighted the notable performance shift resulting from the new technical regulations introduced this season. Leclerc, who has historically been regarded as Ferrari’s primary driver, faces increased pressure with Hamilton’s improved performance after a challenging 2025 season.
Hamilton’s Resurgence and Leclerc’s Struggles
Lewis Hamilton’s reimportantised performance this year contrasts sharply with Charles Leclerc’s difficulties. After a lacklustre 2025, Hamilton has found his footing under the new regulations, enacting real changes to his driving style and car setup. In an unprecedented turn, Smedley observed this season’s unique dynamic, stating, “this is the first time in a long time, with Charles, where his team-mate has had… a real upper hand.”
The Technical Challenges Facing Leclerc
According to Smedley, Leclerc has expressed dissatisfaction with his car’s configuration, particularly noting modifications to the braking system’s components. Despite these adjustments, Leclerc’s results have not matched his potential or prior performance levels, leaving him feeling somewhat adrift. Smedley stated, “it felt like he was just slightly lost for a driver of his experience.”
The Team’s Approach to Leclerc’s Performance
In contrast to Smedley’s critiques, co-host Otmar Szafnauer advocated for a hands-off approach in managing Leclerc’s current situation. Reflecting on his experience as an F1 team principal, Szafnauer remarked, “I would not have a conversation, but be supportive.” He noted that while Leclerc has made strides in the latter part of the season, the team should provide space for him to regain confidence and cohesion on-track.
The SportiveNews view
Leclerc’s current predicament highlights the challenge faced by drivers adapting to evolving technical regulations and competitive pressures within the team. His struggles against Hamilton’s resurgence suggest a critical phase for Ferrari, as the team must ensure both drivers are optimised for peak performance. A strategic reevaluation of Leclerc’s setup could be paramount in realigning him with his competitive edge this season.
Frequently asked questions
What specific changes were made to Leclerc’s car?
Rob Smedley mentioned changes to various components of the braking system, including the types of materials used, aiming to improve performance. However, these modifications have not yet translated to better results on track for Leclerc.
How is Lewis Hamilton performing compared to Leclerc this season?
Lewis Hamilton currently holds a real 31-point lead over Charles Leclerc in the drivers’ championship, indicating a marked improvement in his performance this year, particularly after a difficult 2025 season.
What should Ferrari do to support Leclerc’s performance?
Otmar Szafnauer suggested that Ferrari should maintain a supportive approach without imposing any drastic changes or interventions. Allowing Leclerc time to adapt may be important as he aims to close the gap to Hamilton in the standings.
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